The 10 Best Things to See in Helsinki
Helsinki: A City By the Sea
Helsinki is often a forgotten city. People want to see the royal family in Sweden or the Vikings in Norway, they often don't even know about this gem on the Baltic Sea. But what they are missing out on is a metropolitan city with a unique blend of modern architecture and pristine nature, whether it be green parks, tiny islands, or seaside views. Helsinki is worth the trip!
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| The Rock Church |
10. The Chapel of Silence: this unique, small little chapel is right next to one of the major malls in Helsinki, Kamppi. What makes this chapel so interesting is that it is located in one of the busiest parts of the city, usually there is something going on in that square every weekend, and that it is such simple yet modern architecture that draws people in.
9. Uspenski Cathedral: this Russian Orthodox cathedral is one of the only kind in the city. Sitting upon a hill, it gives great views of downtown Helsinki as well as the Baltic Sea. Inside is absolutely beautiful with its ornate decor, from painted ceilings to golden statues. It's worth the small climb.
8. Senate Square: this square has access to a lot of things. There's the National Library of Finland which is beautiful and worthy of a visit. There's the main building of the University of Helsinki, although the university's library is something that is worth a visit if you're into architecture. And there's the Helsinki Cathedral at the top of the steps which dominates the Helsinki skyline.
7. The Rock Church: this unique church was carved inside the rock formation that can be found all over Helsinki. Sitting just a short walk away from the city center, this peaceful blend of nature and modern architecture is worth the trip. It is also near the National Museum of Finland if you want to learn a bit about Finnish culture and history.
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| Café Regata near Sibelius Park |
6. Island hopping: in the summer, boats are available to take you from one island to another, though some are open in the winter time. You can take boat tours to visit different islands in Helsinki, though some are even accessible by foot or by car. There is Seurasaari known for its open air museum. There is Korkeasaari which is known for its zoo. And there's my favorite, Uunisaari which also has a small restaurant but is really tiny and gives a great view of the Baltic and other islands.
5. Sibelius Monument and Park: although this is a residential area, there is an abundance of parks and views of the bay. The monument itself is built for the composer of Finland and is meant to represent organ pipes. The park is beautiful all times of the year, with green trees in the summer and snow landscapes in the winter. Take a walk down the street and eventually you end up at the Hietaniemi ranta, a nice beach for swimming.
4. Kaivopuisto: this park by the sea gives magnificent views of the archipelago. Known for its location near the embassies and located in a very posh neighborhood, Kaivopuisto also hosts many events. Wander around the neighborhood to see the famous Huvilakatu known for its nordic style and colorful apartment buildings. Or stroll along Merikatu to continue along the water. Eventually you will end up in Eira known for its winding streets and lavish homes.
3. Töölönlahti: this little bay behind the Railway Station is great all times of year. In the winter you can cross the bay on foot when the water is frozen. And in the summer you can walk around it for peaceful views of the city. It's about one mile around and is the perfect blend of city and nature.
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| Sibelius Park |
2. Suomenlinna: this fortress island is the perfect walk outside the city. Once a military fortress, today only a few people still live on the island. Its walled defense system gives great views of the city. And many people go just for the beaches or the swimming. In the winter it is also just as beautiful, just be careful to not slip and fall on the rocks!
1. Market Square: the best view of the city is returning (or leaving) by boat and getting a view of the market and the cathedral. In the summer, a wonderful little market is set up on the square. Nearby is the President's Palace which is rarely open for visits. Off the square is Esplanadi which is one of the richest streets in the city.
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| Market Square |
The rock Church is so amazing and unusual. It is a perfect mélange of nature and man made structures. Helsinki is quite an offbeat destination. I must think about Helsinki as I am planning a Euro Trip later this year.
ReplyDeleteHelsinki honestly is such a great place! Not everyone thinks about it, but it is so calm and relaxed. And the rock church is probably my favorite!
DeleteThe Rock Church looks awesome! What Christian denomination is it? Lutheran? Market Square looks beautiful, Helsinki is still one of those European cities I need to tick off my list!
ReplyDeleteYes it is Lutheran, most of Helsinki is. Helsinki is worth the trip, and from there you can head north to Lapland!
DeleteHelsinki is somewhere I am intersted in going and you have made me want to go a whole lot more! You have explained why its a great place and what there is to do which will help loads of people, including me. I love the rock church! I think that is soo amazing! Great article!
ReplyDeleteThank you! It is worth the trip! I haven't regretted moving here
DeleteThe Rock Church seems like the perfect location for an event, beautiful. The lake side cafe seems more like a typical 'old style' Scandinavian building, do they have trolls inside too? Would love to visit Helsinki one day.
ReplyDeleteYou can find trolls around Helsinki, but not was much as Norway!
DeleteOh I want to visit Helsinki so much!! Your pictures and post are great. The rock church looks really interesting. And the view on market square & the cathedral is something!
ReplyDeleteThank you! I love the view of the market from the boat, always a beautiful view year round!
DeleteI was in Helsinki this February and I really loved exploring the walkable city. I found the Chapel of Silence very interesting as besides being a place of worship, it even holds music events.
ReplyDeleteThe Chapel was so interesting since it is right next to the biggest mall. Good idea to bring some moments of peace in daily chaotic life!
DeleteI was only in Helsinki on a day trip so didn't have time to visit the Rock Church. The Rock Church is the first thing I'll see when I visit again and it's great to read about it here and that you made it there. You took a wonderful photo of it, I'm jealous! I agree that the view of the city is wonderful when returning on the boat from Suomenlinna (where I did make it to!).
ReplyDeleteI'mg glad you had a good experience. It is small enough that you can see most of the main sites in a day, but we always miss something!!
DeleteI can't tell you how much I loved Helsinki when I visited Finland this year. My favorite is the Senate Square and the market area. I spend entire evening exploring this area. Yes the Chapel of Silence is another place worth visiting. Loved the whole feel of this city. I can't wait to go back.
ReplyDeleteIt truly is a wonderful city! I'm glad you enjoyed it here!
DeleteI've never been to Finland, but after reading your post I see lots of amazing things that I'll love to see when I visit. And I love the Cafe by the lake. Perfect location for that!
ReplyDeleteIt is truly worth the visit. The cafe is the perfect location to sit and admire the nature while in a capital city. It truly is an experience!
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